El Paso County Won’t Ban Fireworks This Fourth Of July – Here’s What You Need To Know

Get ready to light up the sky on the Fourth of July. The County has decided not to ban fireworks on the Fourth of July. El Paso County Judge Veronica Escobar said the drought index is well below 575, meaning the sale of fireworks will be allowed. During a news conference on Thursday, Escobar said the drought numbers aren't there, but that doesn't mean the county isn't at risk for fires. She asked that people use extreme caution when heading out to celebrate Independence Day.

There is a six mile stretch of Montana Avenue in Montana Vista where tens of thousands of people go to pop fireworks and party. That's the stretch of road that El Paso Sheriff's deputies will be concentrating on patrolling on the Fourth of July. Residents in Montana Vista are now bracing for the traffic headache that comes along with all those people, and the avalanche of trash that will have to be cleaned up after all the festivities.

El Paso Sheriff Richard Wiles said the extra deputies patrolling the Montana Vista area on the Fourth will be working with the DWI task force and constables. Wiles said if you are reckless and someone gets hurt, you could be charged with assault. If you're drunk, you could be charged with public intoxication.

Fireworks can be sold beginning today, Friday, June 24, and go through July 4 at midnight. You can buy and possess fireworks in the City of Anthony and the unincorporated areas of El Paso County.

You cannot buy or possess fireworks in the City of El Paso, Town of Horizon City, City of San Elizario, Clint, City of Socorro, Village of Vinton, or the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo.